29 Anatomical Models That Will Haunt Your Dreams Tonight

Since the early days of medicine, it's been a huge challenge to communicate anatomical discovery with an audience without any actual human dissection. But thanks to the creativity of the medical experts and artists, there exist a huge variety of anatomical models from wax figures and ivory manikins to papier maché dolls and multi-colour portfolio prints.

The following beautiful and morbid pieces were made from the highest scientific and artistic design, and range from small organs to full anatomical figures, from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. They often consist of removable parts that could be "dissected" to reveal the inner workings of the mysterious human body.

An advertising brochure by Bayer, circa 1930, overlays the bodily systems on each page.Scan and gif: Attila Nagy/Gizmodo

A 72-inch-tall polychrome plaster anatomical model has removable arms, and the torso opens to reveal removable organs. It was made in the early 20th century by Maison Deyrolle in Paris.Photo: Christie's